This Sunday, January 18, would have marked the birthday of the late Frankie Knuckles, the godfather of house music. In celebration of the occasion and in tribute to his lasting cultural impact, Defected Records is unveiling a previously unreleased DJ mix, Defected Presents Frankie Knuckles In The House, available exclusively on Apple Music.
Originally compiled and mixed by Frankie Knuckles himself in 2011, the project was intended for release as a 2CD, digital, and vinyl compilation within Defected’s iconic In The House series. At the time, however, Frankie’s health prevented him from fully committing to the promotional efforts he felt the release deserved, leading him to request that the project be put on hold.
Now, on the eve of his birthday, Defected has chosen to finally share the mix with the world, continuing its ongoing collaboration with The Frankie Knuckles Foundation. The release aligns with Defected’s broader commitment to education, community support, LGBTQIA+ initiatives, and AIDS prevention—causes that were deeply important to Frankie throughout his life.
“As stewards of Frankie’s legacy, we are thrilled and deeply honoured to share this previously unreleased project with his legion of fans,” said Frederick Dunson of The Frankie Knuckles Foundation. “It beautifully captures his quintessential Director’s Cut sound in 2011, which has become synonymous with his name, mixed in classical FK style.”
Alongside the debut of the never-before-heard DJ mix, Defected has also repressed House Masters: Frankie Knuckles on vinyl following overwhelming demand. The 2LP release features extensive liner notes and archival photographs celebrating Frankie’s life and influence, with a tracklist spanning his timeless original productions and essential remixes.
A portion of proceeds from the vinyl release and official Frankie Knuckles merchandise available via DStore will benefit The Frankie Knuckles Foundation, further supporting its mission to preserve his legacy and fund community-driven initiatives.
Defected Presents Frankie Knuckles In The House arrives Friday, January 16, exclusively on Apple Music, offering fans a rare and deeply meaningful glimpse into the sound, soul, and spirit of one of dance music’s most influential figures.